Pop-out Dual Front Camera Maximizing Display Ratio

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Solution Overview

Problem

Front-facing cameras on terminal devices, such as smartphones, occupy space and limit the size of the display screen, preventing it from being maximized.

Innovation Solution

A dual front-facing camera system where a first camera is integrated below the display for face unlocking and a second camera is moveably positioned inside and outside the device for selfies and video chatting, allowing for efficient use of space and maximizing the display screen-to-body ratio.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a front-facing camera is placed on the front side of the terminal device, then face recognition and selfie functions are enabled, but the display screen size cannot be maximized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveface recognition and selfie functionsVSAvoiddisplay screen size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent moves the front-facing camera from the traditional front-side plane to a pop-out structure that extends perpendicular to the display surface. This dimensional change allows the camera to be positioned outside the front panel area, enabling the display to occupy the entire front surface while the camera can extend when needed for selfies and video calls.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The camera module is designed with a movable mechanism that allows it to transition between a retracted state (when not in use) and an extended state (when needed for photography or video calling). This dynamic positioning enables the display to maintain full front coverage while the camera can be deployed on-demand without permanently occupying front-side space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Area of stationary object

If the display screen occupies the full front side, then display screen-to-body ratio is maximized, but space for front-facing camera components is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay screen-to-body ratioVSAvoidfront-facing camera functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The camera system employs a dynamic pop-out mechanism that allows the camera module to extend from the front panel only when needed. During normal operation, the camera remains retracted, allowing the display to occupy the entire front surface area. When selfie or video call functions are activated, the camera smoothly extends to its operational position, maintaining full display coverage while providing camera functionality on-demand.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The camera module transitions from a two-dimensional planar arrangement (embedded in the front panel) to a three-dimensional configuration (extending perpendicular to the panel). This allows the camera to access space outside the front panel boundaries, enabling full-frontal display coverage while preserving camera functionality through vertical extension rather than horizontal placement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Area of stationary object

If a pop-out camera mechanism is implemented, then display screen size is maximized, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay screen sizeVSAvoidcamera mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the camera module, motor mechanism, and control electronics into a single unified pop-out assembly. This merging of components reduces the number of separate parts and interfaces needed, simplifying the overall structure despite the added functionality. The camera unit is designed as a self-contained module that can be manufactured and assembled as one integrated component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pop-out camera mechanism serves multiple functions: it enables selfies, video calling, and potentially other front-facing imaging applications. By designing a single mechanism that handles all these functions, the patent avoids the need for separate mechanisms for each function, thereby reducing overall complexity while maximizing display screen size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables instant face unlocking and image capturing without sacrificing display screen size, providing a full immersive viewing experience while maintaining user convenience.

Implementation Method 1

a first light sensing unit located below the display unit and configured to sense incident light transmitted through the display screen

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight transmission: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 2

a second light sensing unit moveably held to a first position inside the outer case responsive to deactivation of the second light sensing unit and moveably held to a second position outside the outer case responsive to activation of the second light sensing unit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical movement:

Data Source

PatentUS11838615B2Terminal device and dual front-facing camera operating method
Publication Date: 2023.12.05 GUANGDONG OPPO MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP LTD
  • US11838615B2 patent drawing
  • US11838615B2 patent drawing
  • US11838615B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A terminal device includes a display unit, and an outer case, a first light sensing unit, and a second light sensing unit. The display unit has a display screen. The display unit displays images on the display screen. The outer case receives the display unit. The first light sensing unit is located below the display unit and configured to sense incident light transmitted through the display screen. The second light sensing unit is placed inside the outer case when deactivated, and extends outside the outer case when activated. Also, a dual front-facing camera operating method is provided.